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Wine Country's Newest It Appellation: Coombsville. Yep, Coombsville.

Ian D. White | Photo: Courtesy Porter Family Vineyards | July 8, 2014

An insider's guide to Napa's Underdog AVA.

Courtesy of Porter Family Vineyards

Sure, you’ve tasted your way through the Yountville and Stag’s Leap American Viticultural Area in Napa. But have you been to Coombsville yet? Napa Valley’s newest AVA is one of the best, offering perhaps Napa’s broadest range of wine tasting—with the least time in the car. Even luckier: It's still generally undiscovered as a weekend destination for out-of-towners. Here is your guide to getting to know Coombsville, from the most modern to the most intimate, all in one day:

The Secret Staple
Most wineries in Coombsville are appointment only, so book ahead. Start at the well-kept secret, Farella Vineyards for a bold Malbec, zesty Sauvignon Blanc, and complex, formidable Bordeaux Blend. While the packaging is brand new, Tom Farella’s winemaking style has stayed the same for many years, showcasing dark fruit, tannins, and silky textures. Farella was a leader in the fight to get Coombsville its AVA standing, so he’s a good local to give you the lay of the land.

Modern Meteor
Balance your earthy experience at Farella with a trip to the sleek Meteor Vineyard. This impressive winery spared no expense on their architecture, equipment, wine, and even labels. These are big offerings that are perfect for cellaring and saving for special occasions. Meteor contests with any Cult Cab on the market.

Hills and Caves
Next, visit Porter Family Vineyards and their caves. Porter provides a balanced experience of old-school charm, and posh cave tour and tasting. The wines and style parallel this balance: tannic and intricate in structure, but with smooth textures and round flavors that make them good people pleasers and immediately drinkable.

Sip with the FamilySciandri Family Vineyards is the perfect place to end your day because you’ll be able to kick back, relax, and taste with the family. They have a beautiful hillside property with flowing trees, deep ponds, and a choice of comfortable outdoor areas to taste. The wines here are big and getting better by the year, and the family is easygoing and a touch unrefined—just like Coombsville.

Bonus: This fall celeb winemaker Julian Fayard is opening a new winery, which will be called Covert.